Molecular and Cellular Determinants of Malignant Transformation in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Abstract
Squamous cell lung cancer (SQCC) is the second most common type of non-small cell lung cancer in the U.S. Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer among active military personnel and U.S. Veterans. Because of exposure to military-related carcinogens and cigarette smoke they are at a higher risk for lung cancer than civilians. For example, exposure to asbestos, which may have occurred in the military work place, puts military personnel and U.S. Veterans at risk. Lung cancer development appears to be related to changes in normal lung cells that are most often due to carcinogens. These changes, called mutations, cause the cells to become abnormal, to live longer and divide faster. These abnormal cells, referred to as premalignancy, may be recognized and killed by the body?s immune system. However, very little is known about what kind of mutations cause the immune system to recognize the premalignancy and how this may be helped by therapies. In this research, we will examine all of the possible mutations in premalignancy and study the body?s immune cells that attack the abnormal cells. By understanding the development of lung cancer and the body?s response, we anticipate developing in the future a vaccine that could prevent SQCC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 07, 2017
- Source ID
- W81XWH1710399
Entities
People
- Steven Dubinett
Organizations
- United States Army
- University of California, Los Angeles